Star centre Semi Radradra is back for Fiji for Saturday’s Nations Championship opener against Wales at Cardiff City Stadium.
Young prop Tim Hoyt is set to make his first Test start.
Acting head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has named a powerful match 23 featuring the return of Radradra, who will play his first Test in more than 18 months, and loose forward Peceli Yato, who provides plenty of impact from the bench.
Seruvakula said every player had earned selection through consistent performances at club level.
He singled out Hoyt for special praise after the youngster was handed the No 3 jersey following Luke Tagi’s unavailability.
“Hoyt has been showing good signs with his performances in France, and that provided him with this opportunity,” said Seruvakula.
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Captain Tevita Ikanivere leads the side from hooker, while experienced scrumhalf Frank Lomani partners Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula in the halfbacks.
The midfield boasts the explosive pairing of Josua Tuisova and Radradra, with Jiuta Wainiqolo and Selestino Ravutaumada providing pace on the wings and Salesi Rayasi starting at fullback.
Fiji’s loose trio features Pita-Gus Sowakula, Kitione Salawa Jnr and Elia Canakaivata, while Yato, veteran prop Peni Ravai and versatile back Vilimoni Botitu headline a strong bench.
FIJI – 15 Salesi Rayasi, 14 Selestino Ravutaumada, 13 Semi Radradra, 12 Josua Tuisova, 11 Jiuta Wainiqolo, 10 Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, 9 Frank Lomani, 8 Elia Canakaivata, 7 Kitione Salawa Jnr, 6 Pita-Gus Sowakula, 5 Temo Mayanavanua, 4 Isoa Nasilasila, 3 Tim Hoyt, 2 Tevita Ikanivere (c), 1 Eroni Mawi.
Bench: 16 Zuriel Togiatama, 17 Livai Natave, 18 Peni Ravai, 19 Mesake Vocevoce, 20 Peceli Yato, 21 Simione Kuruvoli, 22 Vilimoni Botitu, 23 Kalaveti Ravouvou.
Photo: Alex Livesey/Getty Images
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Star centre Semi Radradra is back for Fiji for Saturday’s Nations Championship opener against Wales at Cardiff City Stadium.
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